Black history month is here and there are many different ways you can celebrate the many accomplishments of Black Americans in your classrooms. One terrific way is by sharing stories written by Black authors with your students. The following children’s books are some of our favorites. And what’s even better is that this month we’re giving away all five of these books to one lucky winner! Simply enter through our Instagram page (rules and eligibility are below). Good luck!
“Change Sings: A Children’s Anthem” by Amanda Gorman
Synopsis: In this picture book by presidential inaugural poet and activist Amanda Gorman, anything is possible when our voices join together. As a young girl leads a cast of characters on a musical journey, they learn that they have the power to make changes—big or small—in the world, in their communities, and most importantly, in themselves.
Why we love it: Through her own voice Amanda Gorman highlights how our voices can encourage change and spread a message of love and acceptance. Change starts and grows within each of us and passes along through acceptance and understanding. This is a wonderful read aloud book for children of all ages!
“Most Perfect You” by Jazmyn Simon, illustrated by Tamisha Anthony
Synopsis: After comparing herself to other little girls, Irie confides in her mama that she feels something is wrong with her, that she’s not perfect as she is. And so Irie’s mama tells the magical story of how Irie was intentionally and wonderfully made. In fact, Irie is made up of all her mother’s favorite things: sparkling eyes, a bright smile, and a kind heart.
Why we love it: We live how actor and activist Jazmyn Simon celebrates the unique beauty and strength that lies within all children. We think that kids of all backgrounds will find something uplifting about the story. Plus the illustrations make the book even more beautiful.
“I Am Enough” by Grace Byers, illustrated by Keturah A. Bobo
Synopsis: Grace Byers is an actress and activist known for her roles in Empire and Marvel’s The Gifted. As a multicultural, biracial CODA (Child of Deaf Adults), Grace was bullied throughout her childhood, which inspired her first picture book, the New York Times bestseller I Am Enough—an ode to the empowerment of young girls.
Why we love it: This book screams “Girl Power!” In a world where girls can be easily influenced to compare themselves to photoshopped celebrities and social media images, this book helps build confidence, self-acceptance, and love. It also promotes kindness toward others.
“Black Heroes: A Black History Book for Kids: 51 Inspiring People from Ancient Africa to Modern-Day U.S.A.” by Arlisha Norwood
Synopsis: Black Heroes introduces you to 51 black leaders and role models from both historical and modern times. This black history book for kids features inspirational biographies of trailblazers from the United States, Egypt, Britain, and more.
Why we love it: This book is for late elementary to middle school aged students. It highlights the accomplishments of black leaders around the world from Queen Nzinga to Jackie Robinson, you and your students will marvel at the stories of such inspiring historical figures.
“Goodnight Racism” by Ibram X. Kendi, illustrated by Cbabi Bayoc
Synopsis: With dynamic, imaginative art and poetic prose, Goodnight Racism delivers important messages about antiracism, justice, and equality in an easy-to-read format that empowers readers both big and small. Goodnight Racism gives children the language to dream of a better world and is the perfect book to add to their social justice toolkit.
Why we love it: This book is a wonderful book to read out loud. It celebrates children from many different backgrounds and families. Through this book we are free to dream and imagine a world where we are safe and free.
Don’t forget to enter to win all five books for your classroom or home library!
To Enter:
✨- Follow us.
✨- Like this post.
✨- Tag a friend in the comments (each friend = an additional entry).
✨- Share the post to your story for an additional entry.
Enter on our Instagram page now!
*See rules and eligibility below.
Rules & Eligibility:
To be eligible for the Black History Month Giveaway, you must be following @plsclasses on Instagram, like the giveaway post, and tag at least one friend in the comments from February 1, 2023 through February 28, 2023. One lucky winner will be announced on Tuesday, February 28th at 12 pm EST. Good luck!